Description: A most impressive sconce, Louis XVI/Napoleon III style, attributed to Maison Charles, first half of the 20th century.Artfully realized in sculptural, Ormolu (oven baked) Gold finished brass, with original mirror, adorned with original pleated (torsioned) silk shades. Can also be used with demi-shades, or without shades, with only decorative lightbulbs.Ormolu (from French ''or moulu'', signifying ground or pounded gold) is an 18th-century English term for applying finely ground, high-carat gold in a mercury amalgam to an object of bronze.The mercury is driven off in a kiln leaving behind a gold-coloured veneer known as ''gilt bronze''.The manufacture of true ormolu employs a process known as mercury-gilding or fire-gilding, in which a solution of nitrate of mercury is applied to a piece of copper, brass, or bronze, followed by the application of an amalgam of gold and mercury. The item was then exposed to extreme heat until the mercury burned off and the gold remained, adhered to the metal object.No true ormolu was produced in France after around 1830 because legislation had outlawed the use of mercury. Therefore, other techniques were used instead but nothing surpasses the original mercury-firing ormolu method for sheer beauty and richness of color. Electroplating is the most common modern technique. Ormolu techniques are essentially the same as those used on silver , to produce silver-gilt (also known as vermeil ).Note: Will ship without lightbulbs, due to their fragile nature.In impeccable, museum like condition, complete, in perfect working order.Specialty store price $1200-$1300, offered here for collection price.Measurements:Height-33cm (13 inches),Span-28cm (11 inches),Shade diameter- 12cm (4.72 inches).It is our mission to bring to you curated antique and collectible items, and in the process offer you exceptional 5 star customer service! If for any reason, we fail to reach this goal, please EMAIL us immediately before leaving negative or neutral feedback, and we will find the best solution to bring you satisfaction.Please do not hesitate to contact us with additional questions or requests for extra pics, we will gladly oblige.Thank you for visiting with us and please accept our invitation to leisurely peruse thru the rest of our fine quality items!
Price: 715.5 USD
Location: Iasi
End Time: 2025-01-07T08:03:11.000Z
Shipping Cost: 65 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 14 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Type: Sconce
Size: Medium
Decade: 1900s
Color: Gold
Style: Louis XVI
Original/Reproduction: Antique Original
Material: Brass
